Authorities in Jonesboro, Arkansas, believe they have dismantled a large criminal operation responsible for defrauding banks and transferring stolen funds. The scheme, which resulted in losses exceeding $200,000, involved fraudulent account openings and the use of counterfeit checks.
On January 24, the Jonesboro Police Department responded to a report of significant fraudulent activity at Arvest Bank. The bank alerted authorities that between November 14, 2024, and February 7, 2025, at least 65 accounts were fraudulently opened. These actions resulted in substantial financial losses.
The investigation quickly identified Arthur Leflore as the primary suspect. According to the probable cause affidavit, Leflore, working with at least eight accomplices, would open bank accounts in person at Arvest Bank. He then provided account details to his co-conspirators, who deposited fraudulent checks into the accounts. Before the bank could identify the fraudulent transactions, Leflore and his associates transferred the stolen funds out of the accounts.
Leflore faces multiple charges, including Engaging in a Continuing Criminal Gang, Organization, or Enterprise (a Class A felony), Theft of $25,000 or More (a Class B felony), and Second-Degree Forgery (a Class C felony). His bail was set at $35,000 cash or surety during his probable cause hearing before Judge Barbara Halsey. Leflore’s next court date is scheduled for April 24.
Additionally, Ebonie Sharday Meux, 37, from West Memphis, was arrested in connection with the operation. She faces 25 counts of Second-Degree Forgery, Theft Over $25,000, and Engaging in a Criminal Gang, Organization, or Enterprise. Meux’s bail was set at $75,000 cash or surety.
Authorities continue to investigate the scope of the criminal operation and anticipate further arrests.
